[Anesthesiologic aspects in patients with HIV infections]

A review of anaesthesia for patients with HIV-infection is given. The use of new antiretroviral drug combinations to treat HIV-infection may result in longer survival, and therefore more cases of HIV-positive patients who undergo surgery and require anaesthetic services. Clinical manifestations of the HIV infection in humans can be seen in almost every organ. The anaesthetist must have an understanding of the many manifestations of the syndrome. Physical examination and preoperative preparation is essential. Considerations for the anaesthetist include: the effects of medications and possible drug interactions, organ dysfunction, altered metabolism and choice of anaesthetic technique for the HIV-positive patient. Anaesthetists and other health care professionals must know about the manifestations of HIV-infection in order to provide competent and compassionate care.